The violent conflict in Ethiopia continues – and claims the lives of civilians and children

The conflict in northern Ethiopia is escalating: government forces are advancing toward the capital of the Tigray region, Mekelle, amid bloody battles that are claiming civilian casualties, including children. Eyewitnesses report bombings, deaths, and serious injuries. Meanwhile, the Israeli Foreign Ministry is working to evacuate Israelis stranded in the area.

The conflict in northern Ethiopia has intensified in the past week, as government forces advance toward the capital of the Tigray region, Mekelle, in fierce battles against the Tigray People's Liberation Front. According to the French news agency AFP, the fighting is taking place on multiple fronts. Eyewitnesses in one of the cities in the area reported bombings that claimed the lives of residents, and dozens of wounded were evacuated to hospitals, some losing their eyesight or undergoing limb amputations. Children are also among the dead. The escalation began after seven armed organizations, including Tigrayan and Amhara groups, announced the formation of the 'Coalition of Ethiopian Peoples' Forces for Survival' and pledged to oust Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. In Israel, the Foreign Ministry announced that it is working to evacuate Israelis stranded in the area, in coordination with relevant parties.